With cable operators rebranding themselves as “broadband providers,” the term “cable TV” has fallen out of favor in recent years. The impact of cord cutting, increasing retransmission fees, increased competition from streaming services and changing demographics have all contributed to an industry approach that now considers “video” just another service from the local operator.

While the larger providers can often protect themselves from the changes in consumer interests, smaller, independent cable operators have to continuously evaluate the rising costs and routinely ask themselves, “is it still worth it for me to offer a video service?”

That was the focus of a panel discussion, "Video is Evolving: How to Win in a Changing Video Ecosystem" at The Independent Show held by the NCTC at Disney World this week.

I moderated a panel that included Mark Rankin, CFO, of Summit Broadband in Orlando, Geoff Shook, President & GM, Buckeye Broadband in Toledo, Ohio, and Sandra Tilley, senior vice president of Brand Strategies, EPB, Chattanooga, Tenn.-based provider of broadband services.

‘Hard Conversations’
Providers now see offering video as a service as one of numerous options that will attract and keep customers rather than one that will automatically improve a broadband provider's bottom line, the panelists said.

“In and of itself, I don't believe that video is still a strategic product on its own,” Rankin said. “Having said that, though, I think you need to think about where you deploy it, how you deploy it, how it helps broadband, and certainly as a bulk provider in Florida, serving 55-plus communities, it's a strategic product for us in how we go to market and win business.”

Shook agreed that video is still essential, but with caveats.

“Our philosophy is there'll always be a video product as a part of our catalog, [but] I think that we continue to have the hard conversations over what that product looks like and how we make it affordable,” he said.

Shook acknowledged the importance of his shrinking list of “video-only” customers and said “we don't want to walk away from that,” but he also cited the growing costs that have forced Buckeye to reconsider what channels to carry on a regular basis.

“We've made some really difficult decisions regarding carriage because we just cannot afford to continue to take video rate increases from the programmers,” he said. “Our customers push back and when they get a change in their bill they don't just shop video, they shop everything and so we've walked away from several programmers, but we've also provided resources and options for those customers to find another way to to still get the video and still depend on us to help facilitate it.”

EPB’s customer base is primarily older, according to Tilley, so video still plays an important role. Nevertheless, she continues to look for new ways to partner with third parties to maintain and improve their services.

“We've been able to maintain our market share, and we haven't seen any decline in our broadband because of a loss of video,” she said. “But we do have a customer base which is primarily older that has a high value, and we're looking at how we can continue to offer a quality product. We're working with TiVo now to try to see how much cost we can get out of it by going managed, and we think that that allows us to hold our pricing, keep it at a value for our customers, and still make a short, small margin.

“We don't look at video as a big margin producing product, but I will say we are looking for anything that is the right next thing to bundle to protect our broadband market share,” Tilley added. “So we're going to continue to watch what happens with video and look at maybe broadband TV.”

Simple and Seamless
With increased competition from streaming services, particularly in live sports, panel members agreed on the importance of making it simpler for customers to navigate the increasing variety of sources as well as the complexity and fragmentation of the current scenario.

In response to this, Rankin said he isn’t as concerned about the fact that more big ticket sports are now only available on paid streaming services.

“We don't see that as the bigger problem; it's finding it that’s the challenge and the complexity that customers feel,” he said. “It's middleware that's hard to navigate that is a problem. So the more that our vendors can help us with middleware that makes it easy for customers, I think will make a big difference.”

Tilley cited a campaign by EPB to help their customers better understand the changing video landscape and provide the needed assistance, regardless of who they choose to sign up with—whether it’s their video service or a streaming bundle.

“About five years ago, we rolled out what I call our ‘cord-cutting campaign,’ but really the whole point of it was to say, ‘we want you to have TV the way you want it; we want you to have choice, and we're here to help you,” she said. “Whether it's ours that you want to buy, if you do, we want to sell that to you, and we want it to be a product you like. If it's not ours, we want to help you learn how to stream and find what you're looking for.”

Buckeye Broadband offers a program called “Brain and Stream Assist,” that helps its customers consolidate billing, passwords and navigation, according to Shook.

“We have a pay call center that is there to help those that need the help to figure out how to set up their billing and remember their passwords and connect through to the apps that they choose,” he said. “Our positioning is that we've heard from multiple generations that our video consumers wanted choice and control.”

Understanding how their customers consume TV is essential to a better overall experience, regardless of their age, Rankin added.

“The younger generations probably prefer an app-based search experience, and certainly the older demographic, they love the guide and the big remote,” he said.

Rankin pointed to the TiVo Manager app in helping Summit to “marry” those environments.

“TiVo Manager is doing that well for us,” he said. “We can give the grid guide experience and still create that app experience. And it brings deep search capabilities, such that if you are subscribing to Paramount or Netflix or something else, you know your search will present those options to you. And so, so we think that's the best of both worlds right now.”

Tilley summed up the panel’s philosophy by noting the delicate balance small independent operators need to maintain to continue to offer video while keeping an eye on the bottom line.

“We try to keep the price as affordable as possible while covering costs at a small margin,” she said. “That's our philosophy of how we approach video.”

LENEXA, Kan.—The National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC) has announced a new agreement with Minerva, a provider of cloud-based IPTV and OTT platforms, that will expand the range of technology solutions available to independent operations and to work to improve their video offerings and strategies.

Minerva powers video services for Tier 2 and Tier 3 operators, delivering a comprehensive platform that integrates subscriber management, content aggregation, and user experience into a single, cohesive solution.

The deal will give NCTC members access to a cloud-native platform that serves as the control and experience layer between video infrastructure and end-user devices. It enables operators to deliver a unified, branded viewing experience across live TV, on-demand content, streaming services, and more.

“Our role is to ensure members have access to the right partners and solutions to stay competitive in a rapidly changing video landscape,” said Lou Borrelli, CEO of NCTC. “Minerva brings a strong track record of supporting broadband operators with modern IPTV and OTT solutions, and this partnership expands the options available to our members as they evolve their video strategies.”

Minerva’s platform is designed to allow operators to maintain ownership of the customer experience, with tools to customize the user interface, integrate multiple content types into a single experience, and deliver consistent viewing across devices— including smart TVs, streaming platforms, mobile, and web. It also includes built-in capabilities such as cloud DVR, catch-up TV, and AI-driven content discovery, designed to increase engagement, improve retention, and unlock new monetization opportunities.

“We are excited to partner with NCTC to support its members as they modernize their video offerings,” said Mauro Bonomi, CEO of Minerva Networks. “Our platform was built to help operators deliver a seamless, high-quality entertainment experience while maintaining full control of their brand and customer relationships. Together with NCTC, we look forward to helping members accelerate their transition to next-generation TV services.”

Minerva and the NCTC said that the partnership will be particularly valuable for operators transitioning from legacy video platforms to IP-based delivery, as well as those looking to launch new OTT offerings like NCTC Broadband TV. Minerva’s cloud-based approach supports faster deployment timelines and reduces operational complexity, while providing a scalable foundation for future growth.

The National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC) is a Kansas-based, not-for-profit corporation comprised of more than 650 independent broadband and cable operators serving one-third of the connected households in all 50 United States and territories. The NCTC negotiates content, connectivity, and technology solutions for its member companies that create operational efficiencies, new products, and revenue streams for sustainable growth. For more information, visit: nctconline.org.

WASHINGTON and OVERLAND PARK, Kan.—The National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC) and ACA Connects have released further details about the program and events at the 21st annual Independent Show, which is themed “Imagination Meets Innovation”.

The event will take place July 26-29 at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., and reflect NCTC’s commitment to delivering practical value and resources for its members by focusing on turning industry innovation into immediate operational results, it said. Both the NCTC and ACAC represent smaller, independent cable operators.

“This year’s TIS is designed to make scaling networks, launching advanced services and supporting customers easier than ever for independent ISPs,” NCTC CEO Lou Borrelli said. “Every session, workshop and keynote will equip members with the strategies and turnkey solutions needed to expand and compete at enterprise scale as more broadband choices and smarter connectivity reshape the market. Attendees will leave Florida with a practical framework for enhancing the subscriber experience, whether through profitable mobile bundles, smart AI tools or seamless network convergence.”

Building on NCTC's growing portfolio of mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), programming, and network infrastructure solutions, The Independent Show will introduce expanded tactical workshops focused on mobile device strategies, bundling frameworks and network optimization, equipping members with the tools to offer converged services and increase long-term subscriber retention. These sessions will address the industry's evolving regulatory landscape while guiding members toward seamless customer experiences through the convergence of fiber, Wi-Fi, mobile and video.

Attendees will also learn about NCTC’s latest initiatives in AI, broadband, streaming and other areas shaping the future of connectivity, it said.

“On every front, we’re empowering independent operators to innovate, prepare for the future, and invest in their networks,” ACAC President and CEO Grant Spellmeyer said. “ACA Connects looks forward to leading conversations at The Independent Show with the most influential leaders driving broadband, video, and mobile policy, including FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty. Attendees will not just leave with a more strategic playbook to navigate the regulatory world; they will gain the confidence they need to run their businesses and win.”

ACAC will also deliver an insider analysis for Independent Show attendees, breaking down key policy debates in ways that will help the industry navigate upcoming regulatory and deregulatory changes in Washington.

Expert-led panels and interactive breakout sessions will also focus on topics such as:

• Mobile bundling strategies to strengthen broadband value and customer retention.
• AI deployment, data readiness and governance for B2B applications,
• The evolving video ecosystem and driving customer stickiness with NCTC Broadband TV.
• Network infrastructure optimization and convergence across fiber, Wi-Fi and mobile.
• Regulatory shifts, including permitting reform, AI oversight, universal service reform and changes to the video marketplace.

Keynotes and general sessions on the show’s agenda include:

• Noelle Russell, Founder & Chief AI Officer of the AI Leadership Institute – In the show’s opening keynote, Russell will share practical, real‑world insights on how independents can use AI to strengthen operations, serve customers better and stay competitive without losing what makes them unique.
• Olivia Trusty, FCC Commissioner – Shortly after the keynote on Monday, Trusty will join Spellmeyer for a fireside chat on empowering independent providers to expand broadband access, drive investment and strengthen rural communities.
• David and Jonah Stillman, Generational Experts – In Tuesday’s keynote, a father‑and‑son duo representing Gen X and Gen Z will share research on how different age groups influence technology adoption, culture and team dynamics.
• Jimmy Zasowski, President, Platform Distribution, Disney Entertainment and ESPN – Directly following Tuesday’s keynotes, Zasowki will share new insights in an exclusive fireside chat with NCTC's CEO.

In a pre-show event on July 26, the Marketing Innovators Group (NCTC members only) offers a hands-on AI workshop for marketers to sharpen competitive strategies, user groups to learn from peers and a welcome party at Epcot Pavilion, where guests can experience all four Disney parks in one night.

More information is available here.

WASHINGTON, D.C. & OVERLAND PARK, Kans.—The National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC) and ACA Connects (ACAC) will host their 19th annual Independent Show (TIS) themed “Faster, Farther and Together” on August 19-22, 2024 at the Omni Nashville Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.

“We are as relevant to broadband and video service providers today as the day we started 40 years ago. We were the first organization to create a co-op buying experience offering significantly discounted video pricing that allowed our members to feature video channels at prices comparable to those of the largest companies. Our members represent nearly one third of all broadband customers in the country,” said Lou Borrelli, CEO of NCTC. “Our history of innovation, cost savings and meeting the needs of our members has never been more important as the industry experiences lightning-fast change. Our mission and mandate are to ensure our members stay current and can keep up with everything from streaming to AI applications.”

“We have a great agenda planned for The Independent Show this year,” said ACA Connects’ president and CEO Grant Spellmeyer. “ACA Connects' top priority is to ensure attendees leave Nashville feeling better equipped to navigate the policymaking and regulatory world. We are looking forward to hosting events and panels with industry experts who can share valuable knowledge with our members who are eager to harness historic investments in rural broadband to grow their businesses, deploy more infrastructure and connect more Americans.”

During the show, NCTC’s 700+ service provider members will be discussing and participating in some of the cooperative’s most recently launched strategic initiatives including becoming Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO), which allows operators to provide member-branded mobile services to their broadband subscribers, and the NCTC Connectivity Exchange, the NCTC’s quote to order wholesale platform that enables members to bid for and win national broadband network service contracts.

NCTC is also exploring new cybersecurity services and AI, and will be announcing NCTC Broadband TV, which, when launched later this year, will provide NCTC members the opportunity to offer a lower-cost general entertainment OTT video service to their broadband-only subscribers by leveraging NCTC negotiated content rights and the members’ existing video service platforms.

ACAC has already proven indispensable for its members to navigate the regulatory and policy environment, including helping its members understand the federal government’s Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. BEAD has $42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access across the United States and US territories. The latest version of the ACA Connects BEAD Program Framework estimates that 5.4 million unserved and underserved locations will be eligible for BEAD program funding and that the program should be able to provide robust broadband service to all these eligible locations.

The Independent Show will feature panels, speakers and sessions on such topics such as:

• Practical applications, marketing and the legal landscape in the age of AI
• The future of video consumption in multi-device households
• Advocacy and BEAD updates from Washington
• The critical role of broadband in Nashville's tech economy
• The implications of an FCC proposal to ban bulk billing
• The fate of the FCC's attempt to reinstate Title II regulation of broadband service.

Keynotes on the show’s agenda include:

• Crystal Washington: Harness Generative AI like ChatGPT for Enhanced Performance
• Evan Shapiro: Future of Programming

The invitation-only event, held over four days, will have activities for the whole family as well as countless networking opportunities with NCTC and ACAC members, consisting of broadband, telco, cable, municipal and electric cooperative members from across the U.S. and Canada.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Association of Broadcasters has filed comments with the FCC opposing the FCC’s proposed new rules that would require MVPDs to report blackouts of services during retransmission consent disputes to the agency. 

The cable industry-backed NCTA has come out generally in favor of the proposals with some revisions. "We also do not object to the Commission’s proposal to place the reporting responsibility on MVPDs so long as such obligation in no way implies that the cable operator is at fault for the station no longer being carried on its system," the NCTA argued in a filing. 

The rural telecom association NTCA worried that the proposal would impose additional regulatory requirements on small operators. It also argued that if the FCC imposed the blackout reporting requirements, they needed to dig into the issue of retransmission consent and require information on pricing and other issues relating to the disputes.  

In a Feb. 27 filing with the FCC, the NAB argued that “the Commission should not adopt its proposal. First, the proposal exceeds the FCC’s very limited authority relating to retransmission consent under the Communications Act of 1934 (Act). The proposed requirements also do not fit within the FCC’s authority to regulate the customer service or public interest obligations of certain MVPDs. Moreover, because the proposed requirements do not appear to serve any discernible purpose, they would violate the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA). Finally, given that much of the pay TV industry’s advocacy before Congress and the Commission is entirely dependent upon highlighting (i.e., generating) disputes with broadcasters, NAB anticipates that the creation of this database will, if anything, incentivize more retransmission consent impasses, rather than reducing them. Accordingly, we urge the Commission not to adopt the proposed reporting requirement or host the related database.”

In arguing that the proposed rules might actually increase retransmission consent disputes, the NAB cited the pay TV’s long standing opposition to pay retrans fees.

“Given the pay TV industry’s ongoing strategy of seeking to make the system of retransmission consent appear “broken,” a Commission-hosted database with data on signal carriage disruptions due to retransmission consent disputes would be akin to failing to fence one’s backyard pool on a scorching summer day in a neighborhood full of children,” the NAB argued. “The Commission may find that it merely has created an “attractive nuisance” that incentivizes more disruptions. To avoid increasing consumer harms, NAB urges the Commission to decline to create any additional disincentives for MVPDs to reach timely, successful retransmission consent agreements.”

 HUNT VALLEY, Md. & OVERLAND PARK, Kan.—Sinclair, Inc. has renewed its distribution agreement with the National Content & Technology Cooperative (“NCTC”), a not-for-profit corporation whose members serve one-third of all broadband and video connected households in the U.S. and its territories

NCTC represents almost 700 cable and broadband operators in all 50 states, and negotiating carriage agreements with content providers is among the many services it provides.

As usual, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. 

The agreement allows NCTC's member companies to opt into a multi-year retransmission consent agreement for Sinclair's owned/operated local stations. The renewal also includes an agreement for Sinclair-owned Tennis Channel. 

“We are pleased to renew our agreement with NCTC, keeping our local broadcast stations and Tennis Channel available to the many independent cable system operators across the country, who provide a vital function, often serving the rural and underserved communities across the US,” said Will Bell, Sinclair’s senior vice president and head of distribution and network relations.

FCC chair Jessica Rosenworcel's proposal to revive net neutrality rules produced mixed, mostly predictable, reactions from consumer and industry groups with the NCTA and the senior Republican appointee on the agency Brendan Carr opposing the idea while some Democratic party lawmakers and consumer groups applauded the move. 

The NAB declined to comment on the proposal. 

Rosenworcel made the proposal shortly after Anna Gomez was sworn in as an FCC commissioner, ending a lengthy deadlock. 

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation said that the new Democratic majority would allow the FCC to take action on key consumer priorities, including restoring net neutrality protections gutted under the Trump Administration.

“With the swearing in of Anna Gomez, the FCC finally has the power to take action on the priorities important to the American people, from delivering on net neutrality and expanding affordable broadband access to strengthening local news,” Sen. Cantwell said. “I’m looking forward to working with the Commission to accomplish an agenda that puts consumers first.”

Cantwell also noted that a recent poll by the University of Maryland found that 72 percent of Americans support reinstating net neutrality and that she has been a leading advocate to protect and restore net neutrality rules. Last year, Sen. Cantwell co-sponsored the Net Neutrality and Broadband Justice Act to accurately classify broadband internet access as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act, giving the FCC the appropriate authority to reinstate net neutrality protections.

In contrast, Commissioner Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the FCC issued a statement citing a study by former President Obama’s lawyers on internet regulation that found the effort to impose Title II regulation “would be struck down” by the courts and was a “serious mistake.” 

“The two respected lawyers—who represented the federal government before the Supreme Court during the Obama Administration—expressly lauded the goals of net neutrality,” Carr said in a statement. “Nonetheless, they concluded that Title II regulation of the Internet `would be struck down’ and `would be a serious mistake.’ I agree with President Obama’s lawyers.”

“First, the two senior Obama Administration alums are correct that, in their words, an FCC decision classifying broadband internet access service as Title II telecommunications service would ‘bring about an enormous and transformative expansion in [the agency’s] regulatory authority . . . over the national economy.’  Continuing, they rightly state that regulating the Internet as a Title II utility service `would vastly expand the Commission’s authority and would transform the way a federal agency regulates a vitally important element of our economy and the personal and social lives of hundreds of millions of Americans.’”

“Second, President Obama’s lawyers are correct in stating that any decision by the FCC to apply Title II, utility-style regulations to the Internet `would be struck down by the Supreme Court’ under the major questions doctrine, as West Virginia v. EPA makes clear. Indeed, as the two appellate lawyers succinctly put it last week, the legal question `is an easy one.’”

“As a former General Counsel of the FCC myself, I would encourage my Commission colleagues to heed the judicious guidance offered by these top lawyers from the Obama Administration and focus the FCC’s work on the numerous, important subjects that Congress has authorized the Commission to address—from rural broadband and public safety to spectrum and national security—rather than pursuing the Biden Administration’s unnecessary and unlawful plan for exerting government control over the Internet,”  he concluded. “Heading down the path to Title II would not only push vital FCC matters onto the back burner, it would knock many of them off the stove altogether.”

In a statement Republican-appointed Commissioner Nathan Simington noted that "it has now been nearly six years since we repealed the net neutrality rules, and as far as I know, no one has died yet, nor have any other of the solemnly predicted catastrophes come to pass."

Simington also joined Commissioner Brendan Carr in expressing some doubts about the use of Title II to rein in potential abuses by ISPs but focused much of his attention on big tech companies who would profit from the revival of net neutrality rules.

These big tech companies have funded “an obsession” with net neutrality that obscured the real issue, which is an attempt by big tech “to monopolize…the internet economy” and make sure “they and only they are allowed to reap the massive profits of the internet ecosystem," Simington said in a statement.

The misleading net neutrality debate around “free speech was just the public front for what was really a campaign of industrial lawfare,” by big tech and large streaming companies, he argued.

Michael Powell, president and of the CEO, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association that is backed by cable operators also slammed the plan. 

“The FCC has made clear its desire to launch new net neutrality rules, surfacing new ever-shifting rationales,” Powell said. “The original justification for accessing sweeping Title II authority has become obviously thin. ISPs continue to invest heavily, build ever-faster networks, and have kept those networks open. For two decades, there has been only one two-year period in which the FCC applied Title II to the internet, yet the internet has been open throughout because it makes business sense to offer it that way.”

“The proposed rules may complicate, if not deeply upset, our collective efforts to bring internet to rural and unserved communities,” he concluded. “These rules set out very heavy regulations that complicate the calculus of deploying networks in expensive, risky, and hard-to-serve markets. The FCC’s actions only add to that burden, and we fear net neutrality will lead to net fatality.”

Powell also predicted that “this will be a drawn out, messy proceeding with lots of wasted expense to get rules that might not survive the next election and are unlikely to pass constitutional muster when they reach the Supreme Court, which they inevitably will.”

Support for the idea came from consumer groups like Common Cause that have long backed the idea. 

Michael Copps, former FCC Commissioner and Common Cause special adviser backed the proposal by arguing that “to allow a handful of monopoly-aspiring gate-keepers to control access to the internet is a direct threat to our democracy. Anyone hoping to be a full participant in our society must have access to an open internet that serves the people’s needs. So much of our lives now takes place online that without an internet serving the public interest, we are short-changing ourselves and our country. Congratulations to FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel for her courageous leadership to bring net neutrality back.”

Ishan Mehta, Common Cause Media and Democracy Program director also supported the move. “The Internet has fundamentally changed how people are civically engaged and is critical to participating in society today,” Mehta said. “It is the primary communications platform, a virtual public square and has been a powerful organizing tool, allowing social justice movements to gain momentum and widespread support. We look forward to the reinstatement net neutrality protections, and the control of the Internet returning to the American people instead of Internet providers.”

"The repeal of Net Neutrality during the Trump Administration left access to broadband unregulated and consumers unprotected,” Meta added. “As a result we saw broadband providers throttle popular video streaming services, degrade video quality forcing customers to pay higher prices for improved quality, offer service plans that favor their own services over competitors, and make hollow, voluntary, and unenforceable promises not to disconnect their customers during the pandemic.”

WISPA, which has approximately 1000 members who provide fixed broadband connectivity, and include equipment suppliers, support services, and other industry partners and stakeholders criticized the idea.

“Though details remain to be seen, such a move to reimpose twentieth-century utility-style rules are not needed at this time,” said Louis Peraertz, vice president of policy for WISPA – Broadband Without Boundaries. “The marketplace has thrived in the very absence of such regulation. Low prices, capex output, and technological and service innovation abound. Further, more customers than ever receive broadband, with this number growing each day. Smaller ISPs in particular should not be saddled with burdensome regulations. WISPA has long stood against common carrier regulation of its members’ services. Though Title II would allow access to poles, conduits and rights-of-way for broadband providers – something not automatically granted to ISPs today – its cost, and what it augurs for the future of regulation, outweigh that benefit.  And if the FCC is concerned about the patchwork of state laws, that can be resolved through federal preemption that relaxes regulatory burdens, not increases them.”          

“Quite simply, Title II is for a bygone time, not for a time when companies are actively competing for broadband customers and the government is prepared to provide billions in funding for broadband deployment,” he continued. “That noted, we look forward to learning more and working with the Commission and other stakeholders on this important matter, which, ultimately, we believe demands legislation from Congress.”

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. & NEW YORK—The NCTC has announced a partnership with TONE Networks that will give its members access to a micro-coaching and mentorship program geared towards growing, connecting, and retaining early to mid-career employees. 

This partnership allows NCTC members to quickly deploy, turnkey mentorship and professional development programs for their staff. It is open to all employees but geared towards female development, the NCTC said. 

NCTC operates as a programming, broadband solutions, and hardware purchasing organization for its member companies. It represents almost 700 independent communications service providers who connect approximately one-third of North American and U.S. Territory households.

"One of the challenges that we heard from our members is how to retain and grow key talent, this program offers just that, geared towards female staff, however, can be beneficial to all," said Lisa Hood, CFO/COO of NCTC. "We continue to find ways to help our members to address key issues their businesses are facing with evolving consumer and business demands and this is one of the many benefits of being an NCTC member."

"We have successfully created a turnkey program for NCTC employees and NCTC member company employees, with the goal of educating, mentoring, and developing leaders of tomorrow," added Gemma Toner, founder and CEO of TONE Networks. “TONE Networks offers on demand content directly addressing the many issues facing employees today and assists them with navigating these key challenges with practical advice. By offering employees these resources we find higher retention and satisfaction amongst those that participate."

OVERLAND PARK, Kan.—The National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC), representing more than 700 independent broadband and pay TV providers, has launched a Connectivity Exchange that is designed to help its members successfully bid on providing broadband services to large scale commercial customers. 

"We now have an integrated ecommerce platform that brings wholesale buyers and sellers together to make the RFP process for our members more turnkey and easier for doing business,” explained Lou Borrelli, CEO of NCTC. “Buyers can find connectivity for hard-to-reach places through a single platform. Plus, all connectivity providers are under the same agreement with consolidated billing, which makes it easier for our members to do business."

NCTC's Connectivity Exchange will aggregate NCTC members' individual networks — small and large — to create a unified network that has the potential to reach approximately one-third of the buildings in the United States, the association said. 

By aggregating the member networks, the fully built and integrated platform will allow member operators to compete for and win bids to provide broadband network services to large-scale commercial customers through a members-only, buying and selling platform, the NCTC said. 

In addition, the innovative platform offers automated quote-to-order processes with unified billing and support.

NCTC's Connectivity Exchange is built on a strategic partnership with Connectbase, which provides serviceability and pricing services to participating member companies. NCTC's members' nearly 100,000 locations within the Connectbase platform creates an aggregate network that is automatically surfaced to prospective wholesale network buyers using the platform. Their platform enables NCTC members to streamline their wholesale buying and purchasing.

"By joining Connectivity Exchange, NCTC's member operators can unlock new revenue opportunities by extending broadband network sales efforts to customers and markets they may not have been able to reach previously,” explained Ben Edmond, CEO of Connectbase. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. & OVERLAND PARK, Kan.—With a new theme of “More than Ever” the National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC) and ACA Connects (ACAC) who are hosting and sponsoring the 18th annual Independent Show (TIS) on July 30–August 2 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota have unveiled an expanded program of exhibits, conferences, educational sessions, networking, family-centric fun and activities. 

“This year, we have more booths, more sessions, more opportunities to network, more fun and simply more than ever,” said Lou Borrelli, CEO of NCTC. “We have spent the past year building innovative programs allowing our members to increase their service offerings.”

In addition to offering more sessions, speakers, roundtables, exhibitors and exciting activities for the whole family than ever before, the show is designed to allow attendees to gain invaluable insights and practical advice on topics relevant to important decisions operators will face in the next five years as the video and broadband landscape today undergoes a period of rapid change. 

“The Independent Show is a major industry event, and this year’s is no exception. It is one of the highlights of our community that no one will want to miss,” said ACA Connects’ president and CEO Grant Spellmeyer. “Our program will explore key issues facing our industry, including how to meet the changing face of Congress and more effectively tell our story in state capitals and much more.”

Both Borrelli and Spellmeyer explained that the expanded offerings were developed based on feedback from members and attendees who wanted even more of what TIS has always offered.  

As usual, the event will be covering a host of hot topics for the industry, including the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) agreement and a number of other issues. Those include advice on how members can manage their share of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) billions, which Congress is investing across the country to increase connectivity and close the digital divide.

The show is also designed to offer family-focused fun. Monday night’s party, for example, will take place in the U.S. Bank Stadium, home of the NFL Vikings, where fans will play on the field, party in the suites and feel like an NFL pro. 

Other highlights include entertainment by Paramount comedian Orlando Leyba; a guided tour of Paisley Park, the home of music icon Prince; and an excursion to Mall of America, where attendees can visit Minnesota’s largest Aquarium featuring a 360-degree ocean tunnel, and the first indoor Nickelodeon theme park in the U.S.

TIS will feature keynote speeches from Retired Rear Admiral and Top Gun Pilot Michael Manazir; Andrew Zimmern, the James Beard Award-winning chef and TV personality who seemingly eats anything; Jason Dorsey, named by Adweek as the research guru, who will discuss how to future-proof your organization; Evan Shapiro, a renowned comedy producer known for the IFC series Portlandia; and Jasmine Roth, designer and HGTV television host.

Each year, the invitation-only event brings together NCTC and ACAC members, consisting of broadband, telco, cable, municipal and electric cooperative members from across the U.S. and Canada to hear expert speakers and panels, network with the best and brightest industry leaders, and explore the expansive vendor exhibit floor featuring the latest products and technologies that are transforming the industry.

“The industry is continually transforming, and this year’s Independent Show will provide even more resources and information to our members to utilize in their businesses, so they can also do more than ever before,” Borrelli added. “With dynamic speakers and informative panels, as well as exciting events and activities, Minneapolis will surprise you with all it has to offer!”

TIS is expected to bring together more than a 1,000 NCTC and ACAC members and exhibitors.  

More information is available here. 

LENEXA, Kan. & DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla.—The National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC) has announced a new agreement with Advanced Media Technologies (AMT), which will provide NCTC members access to AMT's portfolio of solutions, including hardware partners such as DZS, CommScope and Plume.

AMT offers immediate shipment of hardware from a variety of manufacturers and will be specifically providing discounts for Wi-Fi 5 enabled devices that can provide up to 1 gig speeds for customers. Many Wi-Fi products will offer triband capability, self-installation options and the ability to function as a Plume WorkPass Gateway. All of which offer value-added experiences for NCTC members and their customers, the NCTC reported. 

"For over a decade, AMT has been a partner to NCTC and our members; we are now entering into a more strategic phase of our relationship, which is poised to bring our members even greater technology options, service offerings and cost savings," said Lou Borrelli, CEO NCTC.

For more information, visit: https://nctconline.org.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. and LENEXA, Kan.—In a deal that’s being termed “landmark,” the National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC), a consortium of more than 700 independent North American broadband providers, has signed a deal that will make the MyBundle.TV content management software available to its member providers and subscribers.   

The MyBundle.TV agreement with the NCTC—whose members serve more than one-third of all U.S. households—will give the cooperative's members the ability to deploy a wide range of tools that simplify the increasingly complicated world of streaming TV, they said. 

The MyBundle.TV platform offers free and easy-to-use tools to help consumers discover and manage their streaming service subscriptions, watch free live TV, and find content to watch across their services. It currently incorporates more than 150 streaming services and partners with approximately 115 broadband providers serving 9.1 million customers nationwide.

The MyBundle.TV platform will work in conjunction with NCTC members' own video offerings or as a standalone broadband solution, offering subscribers a simple way to manage and make the most of the vast streaming TV landscape, they said.

Formerly the National Cable Television Cooperative, the NCTC rebranded itself last summer as the National Content & Technology Cooperative. 

"Entering into a strategic partnership with the recently rebranded NCTC is a landmark agreement in the growth and evolution for MyBundle.TV," said Jason Cohen, Co-Founder and CEO of MyBundle.TV. "We applaud the NCTC's rebrand and commitment to drive new revenue generating opportunities for its members. The MyBundle.TV platform will provide NCTC members with cost-effective tools to grow, retain and delight their customers." 

"In a short period of time, we have seen MyBundle.TV have great success in working with broadband companies to fortify their businesses. The NCTC is very pleased to enter into a comprehensive agreement with MyBundle.TV that will bring its array of tools to all of our members nationwide," said Lou Borrelli, CEO, NCTC. "We look forward to working with Jason and his team in the years ahead helping our members deploy an array of innovative options that not only help their end customers save money, but also enhance their current broadband and video experiences."

ORLANDO, Fla.—As The Independent Show (TIS) wraps up this week, the organizers have announced plans for an expanded show in Minneapolis between July 30 and August 2, 2023 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. 

NCTC, the National Content & Technology Cooperative, and ACA Connects (ACAC) said they plan to significantly expand The Independent Show in 2023, providing many new opportunities for service providers and technology suppliers alike to network and engage with other members, learn from industry-leading experts and explore the most expansive exhibit floor to date. 

Hosted at the Minneapolis Convention Center from July 30 to August 2, TIS 2023 will feature more customized content, educational sessions, policy talks, sponsorship offerings and many other new opportunities to help members grow their businesses.

The organizers also highlighted a number of new initiatives that took center stage at the show. 

These include NCTC’s new Connectivity Exchange, which provides a fully automated, unified platform for its member operators to secure large-scale RFPs and provide broadband network services for national accounts with ease. Due to the size and reach of NCTC’s member base, the Connectivity Exchange provides the largest, most accurate network in the world, the NCTC said. 

Other major initiatives shared at TIS this year span from NCTC committing to launch a new MVNO service, to getting better guidance on qualifying for the $65 billion in Federal funds being given out by 50 brand new state broadband agencies.  

ORLANDO, Fla.—NCTC has announced that it is partnering with Connectbase to provide a fully automated, unified platform for its Connectivity Exchange.

The Connectivity Exchange program enables NCTC's independent member operators to compete for and win projects with national brands or large scale RFPs for last mile broadband network contracts. 

Sixty-five of NCTC's members have already shown interest and are actively involved in conversations to join the program. 

The Connectbase Connected World platform will be used to automate the network buying and selling processes.

"Our strategic partnership with Connectbase and Neustar not only gives independent broadband providers new levels of national visibility and marketability, but it will also make accessing the combined strength of our members completely seamless - in one automated interface," said NCTC's vice president of technology and innovation, Jared Baumann. "Now, our members are more equipped to address critical gaps in the broadband market like no one else can. We've never been stronger together."

NCTC's more than 700 independent cable and broadband member operators cover many areas in the U.S. where other national communications service providers do not have a franchise or fiber network.

With the enhanced platform, these members can advertise to the world where their networks and nodes are, creating revenue opportunities to service new markets. 

This new capability will also open doors for buyers who need broadband for last mile deployments, including those in rural areas and underserved locations requested in national bids, which will now be accessible for the first time, the NCTC said. 

The platform leverages the power of Connectbase and its partner Neustar to provide real-time information and analytics, serving as a central, one-stop customer relationship management (CRM) solution for NCTC members and buyers, enabling seamless end-to-end management of wholesale sales efforts. 

To date, NCTC's members have already registered over six million locations with Connectbase, creating an aggregate network that is automatically surfaced to prospective wholesale network buyers.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — In unveiling the NCTC’s new moniker at The Independent Show here Monday, president and CEO Lou Borrelli said the change is in part an effort to emphasize the organization’s position in the industry and to ensure that its membership still has a strong voice.

The NCTC officially changed its name to the National Content and Technology Cooperative on Monday. It had previously been the National Cable Television Cooperative.

In announcing the switch on the Independent Show stage, Borrelli said the purchasing of programming will still be at the group’s core, but added that membership engagement is needed as the organization moves forward.

“Fundamentally, the relationship that we have as a co-op with our members is changing,” Borrelli said. “We've had a fairly passive relationship under the way the Co-op was formed originally with buying programming: We negotiate deals, you launch channels and then we wait until the renewal. 

“Our path going forward requires all of us to be more active and be more engaged,” he continued. “This is not a passive relationship anymore. It can’t be, because what’s happening in Washington with the money that is going to be flowing, what’s happening with technology and direct-to-consumer, we all have to be in this together active and involved. If not, it puts our sustainable future at risk.”

Borrelli added the co-op will still purchase programming and equipment for members, but added that its size has been overlooked in the past.

NCTC members represent more than 34 million homes, or one-third of all of the connected households in the U.S., he said.

“That puts us on par with Comcast and with Charter, and gives us a seat at the adults table,” Borrelli said. “We will be more engaged, more active in the industry, we will have a voice on your behalf, to make sure that the independent operators are not left behind in the conversation.”  

He added that NCTC also has great partners in ACA Connects, who do the same in Washington with legislators and with elected officials, locally, statewide and nationally.

"I couldn't be happier to be joined at the hip with them," Borrelli said. 

T️his article originally appeared on TV Tech sister brand NextTV.

ORLANDO, Fla.—The National Content & Technology Cooperative (NCTC), which represents 700+ independent communications service providers, has announced that it is closing in on completing its first partnership agreements that would allow its members to deliver new MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) cellular services to members.

The group did not specify which telcos it might be working with, but the NCTC did say that it expects members to be ready to launch the bundled discounted services by Q4. 

Adding mobile services is an important step forward for the competitive position of NCTC’s members, which also provide broadband and video to 40+ million end-users in North America and the U.S. Territories. 

Faced with ongoing video sub loses from cord cutting, operators have found that discounted mobile services are an effective way to attract new customers or retain existing customers.

To deliver seamless, branded billing, tiered bundle discounts with broadband, and mobile device sales and services, the NCTA said that multiple suppliers will be incorporated into one program that would be invisible to member subscribers. That means operators can retain their brands while delivering significant discounts off national rates along with multiple plans and cost savings.

The NCTC also said that members who participate as an MVNO will have flexibility in the software and hardware they utilize, helping them tailor services based on their requirements and meet consumer demand for more choice.

“Mobile is increasingly crucial to many of our members who are seeking more options to meet the unique needs of their customers,” said Jared Baumann, vide president of technology innovation at NCTC. “Like other benefits of NCTC membership, our new MVNO agreements will harness our collective buying power to drive  value and ease of entry for members of all sizes. Now that NCTC is firmly in the mobile game, we can benefit operators and end-users across the country by offering the most competitive deals for high-quality services.”

“Success in today’s complex and competitive market hinges on collaboration,” continued Baumann. “Our new MVNO agreements align perfectly with the other group-based savings members already receive. Based on this, operators will be able to offer innovative new bundles and service offerings to their customers.”

NCTC’s commitment to offering MVNO services was announced in person at The Independent Show 2022. 

During the show, the association also announced its new name as the National Content & Technology Cooperative, along with a new logo and vision that included commitments to innovations for content providers, broadband providers and suppliers.

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.—The National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC) and Qwilt are reporting significant progress in their initiative to upgrade NCTC member networks across the United States with technologies that will provide high-quality content delivery and better digital experiences for up to 34 million households in the U.S.

In November 2021, NCTC and Qwilt launched a joint initiative to upgrade NCTC’s member networks across the United States so they can quickly increase their capacity to handle growing on-demand and live streaming traffic on ISP networks during primetime. 

“We are constantly seeking new ways to bring impactful and innovative technology solutions to our clients, and our partnership with Qwilt does just that,” explained Jared Baumann, vice president of technology innovation at NCTC. “Qwilt’s edge cloud and open caching software provide the CDN infrastructure our members need to tackle the dramatic growth of streaming media on their networks head-on. It enables our members to deliver content with the greatest efficiency while also enabling, for the first time, monetization of OTT traffic that their networks are carrying.”

The partnership leverages Qwilt’s CDN technology within NCTC member networks to create a nationwide federated CDN. 

The program, which the NCTA is billing as a first of its kind in the U.S., includes new hardware and CDN technology, installed at no extra cost to members in their networks. It also enables them to share in new services revenue generated by the federated platform. The outcome of the initiative ensures all members of the value chain – service providers, streaming platforms, and end-users – benefit from higher-quality streaming.

As of June 2022, 100+ NCTC members have signed up to deploy this upgrade in their networks. 

The program is still open for qualifying members.

Every NCTC member deploying the solution is federated by Qwilt’s cloud service so content publishers can access the entire national CDN through a single API. 

Qwilt’s technology is compliant with Open Caching guidelines from the Streaming Video Alliance which define an interoperable network of caches for content delivery. The solution is powered by Qwilt’s Edge Cloud for Content Delivery platformand runs on Cisco’s edge compute and networking infrastructure, so it can be delivered as-a-service to NCTC members.

Alon Maor, CEO, Qwilt, said: “This is one of the largest network upgrade initiatives of its kind, and we’re incredibly excited to see over 100 NCTC members join the initiative to date. We consistently outperform other CDNs in terms of quality and reliability, and NCTC members who joined the program benefit from higher-quality streaming, cost savings and monetization, thanks to the revenue share of content delivery fees Qwilt charges to content publishers. We are already shipping equipment to approved service providers and look forward to bringing more NCTC members onboard the nationwide content delivery network.”

Qwilt will be exhibiting at the NCTC’s upcoming The Independent Show, taking place July 24-27 at the Disney Yacht & Beach Club Resorts in Florida.

LENEXA, Kan. & CENTENNIAL, Colo.—Evolution Digital and the National Cable Television Cooperative, Inc., (NCTC) have inked a new multi-year agreement that will continue to make Evolution Digital’s robust suite of broadband and Android TV products available to more than 700 independent service providers across the U.S.

As part of the deal, NCTC’s member operators may access Evolution Digital’s leading OpenSync certified devices, enabling Plume’s award-winning SaaS Experience Platform. The deal also provides the option for NCTC members to offer to end-user customers Evolution Digital’s line of Android TV hardware including eSTREAM 4K, EVO FORCE 1 and EVO PRO.

“This new agreement further builds upon the trusted and long-standing relationship between Evolution Digital and NCTC,” said Marc Cohen, chief revenue officer of Evolution Digital. “We are excited to continue our close partnership to enable best-in-breed services for the connected whole-home ecosystem. Evolution Digital’s acumen for delivering the latest innovative technology at a competitive price point, coupled with NCTC’s reliability and efficiency for managing materials and transactions, breeds reliability and promptness with the service providers that we jointly serve. We look forward to working closely with NCTC.”

Lou Borrelli, CEO of NCTC added that “Evolution Digital is simply a great NCTC partner. They are offering our members the Western Hemisphere’s leading Android TV hardware, and terrific software products to our members at the best prices. This is a win-win for all.”

LENEXA, Kan. & PITTSBURGH, Pa.—The National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC) and ACA Connects (ACAC) have announced that they will host and sponsor the 17th annual Independent Show (TIS) as an in-person event on July 24–27 at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 

During the show the NCTC will unveil its new name, logo and direction on the opening day of the show to attendees and ACA Connects will introduce its new president and CEO, Grant Spellmeyer, who is replacing retiring president and CEO Matt Polka, who has served ACA Connects for 25 years.

This will be the first time TIS will be held as an in-person event in three years.

“The industry is undergoing massive transformation and this year’s Independent Show will provide invaluable education, news and opportunities to help our members stay ahead of the curve and continue to grow their businesses into the future,” said NCTC leader Borrelli. “We are so pleased to be reuniting in person once again for our flagship event and are confident this year’s gathering will be the best and most talked about yet.”

“The ACAC-NCTC team has prepared an exciting program for this year’s Independent Show, which will be my first as ACA Connects’ new president and CEO,” Spellmeyer explained. “The agenda tracks with all the key issues facing our industry, especially the rollout of fiber networks occurring in so many rural markets and the rules and regulations taking shape in Washington, D.C., that will govern the distribution of billions of dollars in broadband infrastructure grants via policymakers in the 50 states.”

TIS is expected to bring together more than 170 NCTC and ACAC member companies as attendees, as well as more than 120 exhibiting companies.  

In addition to panel discussions, breakout sessions and industry experts, TIS will feature a keynote speech from Mike Schultz, a Paralympic Snowboarding Medalist and CEO and engineer at BIOADAPT, as well as sessions with NCTC CEO Lou Borrelli, ACA Connects new and former leaders, Grant Spellmeyer and Matt Polka, and other senior industry leaders.

Thought leadership discussions will be centered on industry trends, best practices and future forecasts. Panels will examine how the industry is evolving and how business plans must pivot to remain ahead, as well as providing practical advice from ACAC leaders on navigating federal and state regulatory guidelines, gaining insight into accessing governmental funds, breaking news developments and more, the organizers said. 

The event will also feature multiple family-focused events, including a Disney Character Dinner and an after-party at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park; Pandora - The World of Avatar, with exclusive access to two rides as well as a networking lounge with a bar and music.

NCTC and ACA Connects are closely monitoring updates from the CDC, state and local officials regarding COVID-19. The safety of all attendees will be kept as a top priority. All required and appropriate COVID safety precautions will be taken to ensure a safe experience. Show management will establish onsite protocol and procedures closer to the event.

BURBANK, Calif. & LENEXA, Ka.—Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution and the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC) have announced a new, multi-year distribution agreement that will make Disney’s sports, news, kids, family and general entertainment programming from networks, broadcast stations and SVOD services available to the 700+ small and mid-sized independent cable and broadband operators that belong to NCTC.

In addition to the ESPN networks, the Disney branded channels, Freeform, the FX networks and the National Geographic channels, the deal covers retransmission consent for the ABC Owned Television Stations and will allow NCTC member operators to offer the ACC Network to their customers beginning September 1.

The comprehensive distribution agreement between the parties also will allow operators to market the streaming services Disney+ and ESPN+, joining Hulu which is already available to some operators. NCTC member operators will be able to link their customers directly to the Disney+ and ESPN+ websites where new subscribers can sign up.

“Our new deal with the NCTC will allow member operators to continue serving their customers across the country by delivering Disney’s robust and expansive portfolio of networks, which includes the addition of the ACC Network,” said Sean Breen, executive vice president, platform distribution, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution. “We’re incredibly pleased that the agreement will also now give their members’ customers direct access to our collection of streaming services.”

LENEXA, Kan.—The Board of Directors of the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC) has appointed 43-year cable television industry veteran Lou Borrelli as its next chief executive officer, effective June 1, 2021. He succeeds Rich Fickle, who has led the organization as CEO since 2011.

NCTC’s Chairman of the Board, Brad Mefferd said in a press statement: “We are thrilled to have a CEO of [Lou’s] caliber leading the organization. He is a proven industry veteran with a distinguished track record of innovation, transformation, talent development and a deep and wide knowledge of the industry. He will continue to build on the values-based cultural leadership and approach, and the hyper-focus on serving members that has been the NCTC’s hallmark since its inception. Throughout his career, Lou has harnessed technology advancements to drive new products and revenues, customer acquisition and retention and has led his teams with passion, creativity and integrity.”

Borrelli joins the NCTC from his most recent position as chief executive officer of Home and Entertainment for Digicel Group Ltd., which provides mobile phone, cable and broadband to 27 countries in the Caribbean, Central and South America. He was responsible for cable and broadband strategy, policy, operations, content strategy and distribution rights for Digicel’s sports and entertainment networks.

Having owned and operated cable systems in second and third-tier markets, Borrelli is an independent cable operator at heart with an extensive understanding of the challenges facing operators of all sizes in today’s competitive landscape. A founding partner of Marcus Cable, Borrelli and his colleagues were recognized as Cable Operator of the Year in 1998 and he was inducted into the Cable Pioneers in 2002.

“I have tremendous respect for the NCTC’s rich history, charter and members. This organization has significant potential to continue to reshape and reinvent the future of independent cable operators for years to come” Borrelli said. “I look forward to working with the incredibly talented NCTC team, our board, our members and the industry at large to accelerate innovation and create value for our members and their customers. This is a circle of life moment for me.”

Mefferd added, “The board and I deeply appreciate Rich Fickle for his leadership and significant contributions throughout his tenure at NCTC. Thanks to his leadership, NCTC is on strong financial footing and well-positioned for the next chapter in the organizations growth.” Fickle will provide valuable insights during the transition phase and will continue to play a key role in pivotal projects such as the MobiTV/Tivo project on behalf of the NCTC membership.

The NCTC represents more than 700 broadband and cable operators serving all 50 states and the U.S. territories since 1984.

LENEXA, Kan.—The National Cable Television Cooperative and ACA Connects said Wednesday, July 15, its 2020 Independent Show will be a virtual online event.

NCTC said the “reimagined” virtual Independent Show will take place Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 and will feature national, industry and political speakers. The theme of the six-hour, three-day event is "Trailblazing in a Digital World," and will bring together nearly 1,000 industry professionals from across the country, the NCTC said. 

"The goal is to help independent providers better understand the changing landscape of broadband internet, advanced video and other technical and policy issues in a post-COVID-19 world, including in the marketplace, on Capitol Hill and at the Federal Communications Commission," NCTC  said in a press release.

The 2020 Independent Show event was originally scheduled for July 26-29 in San Antonio, Texas, but was changed due to restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re very excited to bring our members together once again for our 15th annual Independent Show, and while this show will be different from all of the others it will be the same in delivering the best information that will help our members meet their communities’ broadband and video needs in our new normal,” NCTC CEO Rich Fickle said in a press release.

CNN political analyst Ron Brownstein will lead a keynote session on politics today in America and the upcoming 2020 election. A full schedule of speakers and sessions will be announced soon, including political, regulatory and industry leaders, member presentations and breakouts, and a review of the key business and policy issues facing NCTC and ACAC Members.

“Our members have delivered the broadband promise during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the political and regulatory stakes are higher than ever, and that’s why we’re glad to meet at #TIS20 to cover these important issues,” said ACA Connects CEO Matt Polka in a press release.

Registration opens July 20. More details are available at The Independent Show website. 

LAS VEGAS—The National Cable Television Cooperative and Imagine Communications are set to collaborate on AdKey, a cloud-based, platform-agnostic service designed for ad insertion on all IP-based video streams.

As part of this new partnership, Imagine Communications cloud-based ad monetization technology will be deployed via independent operators by the third quarter of 2020, with trials expected to begin in the coming months. NCTC represents more than 750 independent cable operators in the U.S.

The AdKey platform is designed to mirror legacy infrastructures in IP-based offerings. It also can serve as a tool for selling inventory on additional channels that are not being monetized through compatibility with an expanding ecosystem of partners from the advertising value chain.

“AdKey is focused on helping our independent operators preserve existing ad revenue streams based on legacy infrastructure while clearing a path to video monetization on connected devices without requiring high upfront costs or investments in new gear,” said Rich Fickle, president of NCTC. “Imagine’s ad tech is proven globally and the company’s embedded status with all of our critical advertising partner will help our members accelerate the shift to next-generation IP distribution for reduced set-top-box costs, increased consumer satisfaction and new opportunities for advertisers to connect with viewers.”

For more information, visit Imagine Communications’ website. 

LAS VEGAS—If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. That seems to be the motive behind the announcement this week when the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC), a group representing more than 750 rural broadband and cable operators in all 50 states, announced a new initiative that allows NCTC member companies to purchase Amazon Fire TV streaming devices at a discount.

The new discount program will enable NCTC's member companies to provide their subscribers with high-quality streaming media devices, including Fire TV Stick, Fire TV Stick 4K, and Fire TV Cube. Operators may offer the Fire TV devices bundled with their pay-TV video service offerings or in conjunction with their broadband services. NCTC expects to begin offering the discounted Fire TV products to NCTC's member companies in the coming weeks.

"As more of our members deploy app-based pay-TV offerings, having the option to purchase Amazon Fire TV streaming devices at a discount will help our broadband and cable operator members retain video customers by creating affordable options that do not rely on a traditional set-top box. These devices are a great compliment to services like MobiTV or for broadband only offerings by our members," said Rich Fickle, president of NCTC. "NCTC is committed to creating new ways for independent cable and broadband providers to delight customers by offering the products and services that today's video and broadband consumers want."

LOS ANGELES—There was no blackout of Fox-owned broadcast stations and networks for National Cable Television Cooperative members and subscribers when the clock struck midnight on 2019, as the two sides reached a new carriage agreement.

Fox shared the news on its site www.keepfoxnewsandsports.com, which features the following statement:

“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with the NCTC that avoids any disruption to our viewers. All of the NCTC’s members will continue to carry our portfolio of leading sports, entertainment and news programming for years to come.”

The Fox programming referred to in that statement includes Fox-owned broadcast stations, Fox News Channel, Fox Business Network, FS1, FS2, Fox Deportes and Fox Soccer Plus.

The NCTC represents more than 700 small and rural cable operators that cover around 3 million subscribers.

Fears of a blackout were raised by NCTC as it claimed that Fox was seeking a rate increase 10x its current rate. The financial terms for the agreement have not been disclosed.

SAN JOSE, Calif.—An agreement has been struck between Harmonic and the National Cable Television Cooperative to jointly offer Harmonic’s CableOS virtualized cable access system to cable operator members of the NCTC. The CableOS system will be able to assist the cable operators in their migration to DOCSIS 3.1 Gigabit internet.

As a turnkey system, CableOS helps operators transition from older CMTS platforms to new cloud-native DOCSIS 3.1 networks. The system will allow for small- and mid-size cable operators to increase broadband capacity while also providing reliable streaming video services, according to Rich Fickle, president and CEO of NCTC.

Some NCTC members have already deployed the CableOS, including 1Tennessee, Buckeye Broadband, Comporium, Hilliary Communications and TVS Cable.

NCTC has more than 750 member companies throughout the U.S.

BALTIMORE—Sinclair Broadcast Group and the National Cable Television Cooperative have announced they have come to terms on a multi-year retransmission agreement. The deal will allow NCTC member companies to opt-in to the deal.

NCTC will now represent more than 2 million ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox subscribers in Sinclair’s markets, as well as 700,000 CW and MYTV subscribers. In addition, carriage of the Sinclair-owned Tennis Channel was part of the agreement.

NCTC has more than 850 independent cable/broadband operator members.

EMERYVILLE, CALIF.—MobiTV has agreed to a deal with National Cable Television Corporation that is designed to help the co-op’s membership of indie operators—which totals more than a reported 800 pay TV providers—migrate to a next-gen, IP-based platform rather than the traditional set-top boxes. At the center of the agreement is MobiTV Connect, an app-based multiscreen video platform.

Read the full story on TVT’s sister publication B&C.

For a comprehensive list of TV Technology’s ATSC 3.0 coverage, see our ATSC3 silo.